Thanksgiving Weekend Signals Holiday Shopping Season Safety Tips in Lexington, S.C.
LEXINGTON, S.C. – With families traveling and gathering for the Thanksgiving weekend, many are kicking off their holiday shopping spree. But with the excitement of the season also comes a *reality check* on safety. Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon is reminding shoppers to stay vigilant to protect themselves from *thieves looking to cash in on holiday chaos*.
The Season of Giving… and Taking!
“This time of year always brings concerns for safety and security,” Sheriff Koon expressed. “It’s crucial to be mindful because the holiday season can make you a prime target for crooks who are looking to steal your money, your merchandise, or even your identity. Staying alert is key to protecting your valuables and personal information.”
Safe Shopping Tips You Should Remember
To keep you safe while enjoying the festive spirit of shopping, Sheriff Koon shared some friendly tips that are easy to follow:
- Don’t Go Solo: Always shop with a friend or family member. A single shopper makes for the best target for theft!
- Let Someone Know: Tell a trusted person where you are shopping and when to expect you back. Share what you’re wearing and the vehicle you’re driving.
- Keep Your Cash Close: Place cash in your front pocket instead of your purse or wallet to make it harder for pickpockets to snag it. It’s also a smart idea to keep your car keys in a pants or jacket pocket; if your purse gets stolen, you can still get home!
- Seek Help if Needed: If you’re feeling uneasy about returning to your vehicle alone, don’t hesitate to ask a security guard for assistance to your car.
“It’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays that start as soon as we put away the Thanksgiving leftovers,” Sheriff Koon noted. “Busy shoppers can sometimes get *careless and vulnerable* to financial fraud crimes.”
Watch Your Wallet: Protecting Your Financial Information
Now, let’s talk about how to keep your financial information safe during your shopping endeavors. Sheriff Koon shared several preventative measures to help ensure your *money stays in your pocket*:
- Keep an Eye on Your Cards: Always watch your credit and debit cards every time you use them. Get them back as quickly as possible!
- No PIN Writing: Never jot down your PIN on your card—it’s a surefire invitation for trouble.
- Don’t Leave Stuff Lying Around: Avoid leaving cards or receipts out in the open.
- Shield Your Information: Be mindful of people around you when you’re entering your card number or PIN so that no one can copy your details.
- Travel Light: Only carry the cards you absolutely need while out shopping.
- Shred Your Documents: Make sure to dispose of anything containing your card number responsibly.
Buying Gift Cards? Be Smart About It!
Gift cards have become a popular present for the holiday season, but they can also turn into a way for criminals to access your accounts. Sheriff Koon provided some *tried and true* strategies to safely purchase gift cards:
Remember, if you notice any suspicious activity in or around a store, it’s important to report it—call 911. For any fraudulent financial activity, reach out to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department at 803-785-8230.
Stay safe out there, Lexington! Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the holiday season while keeping your personal treasures protected. Happy shopping!
